See what local families and community members say they need for their children across the State
Family & Community Stories
Birth to Five Illinois has created a space for families and community members in every Illinois Region to share their experiences with local Early Childhood programs and services. Through stories about challenges and successes, we can identify the issues and work collectively to mend what is broken, while also celebrating what is working.
Family Council Impact: Region 12
“I thought it would be a really good way to give myself and families like mine a voice in the community.”
Everyone Deserves to Be Treated with Respect - By Sara Farmer
There needs to be more of a support system in place for parents and their children.
Grateful for The Preschool For All Program – By Single Parent of Six
...I will be forever grateful to our Preschool Teacher for providing my children with a safe and welcoming place to learn, play, and grow.
Em's Story – By Anonymous
Parental support during any IEP meeting by a professional on the family's side and the child should be mandatory.
Where Are the Helpers? - By A Tired Parent
Where are the helpers, and why is it so hard to find quality care in our area?
Region 12: What Families Say They Need
"…we simply need more local, quality, and affordable access to everything every day — child care, medical resources, community programs, and so much more."
Just When I Think My Work as Grandma is Slowing Down, They Start to Call Me Great - By Sandy Hyde
Our area needs more support for grandparents raising grandchildren. We also need more activities for children of all ages to do.
Foster Care Equality - By C.
To begrudge a child a place in child care based off being in the foster care system is preposterous!